6:45am - HEINEKEN 3 METROPOLITAN | 2400m | Group 1 | i

A classic staying contest under handicap conditions, the 'Metrop' brings together a big field again. STAMPEDE should roll forward with HUSH WRITER, PATRICK ERIN and ATTENTION RUN for company, a couple of others capable of pushing on-pace too (tempo: FAIR to STEADY). STAMPEDE has enjoyed a SLOW tempo early in his two recent runs and the early tempo will dictate his chances. Very hard to go past BRIMHAM ROCKS and SCARLET DREAM, both progressing well to 2400m and suited on firm ground. BRIMHAM ROCKS seems to be back to his Spring 2018 form, which saw him close to Prince of Arran, who then ran 3rd in the Melbourne Cup. SCARLET DREAM the younger stayer with upside, she ran 2nd to Verry Elleegant in an Oaks when held up. BIG DUKE, SIR CHARLES ROAD, ATTENTION RUN, NEUFBOSC, GALLIC CHIEFTAIN, COME PLAY WITH ME and others all in the mix if they fail. [updated 9:07am]